| Fuel Efficiency Upgrade: Headers, Exhaust, Throttle Body, Aerodynamics |
| A Ford F-150 gets several upgrades, all leading to better efficiency and higher mpg. |
From "Weekend Mechanic"
episode WKM-405 |
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Wiring and components for the retractable tonneau cover
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Truck-Bed Tonneau CoverWith the exhaust-system upgrade complete, the next phase of the fuel-efficiency project is the installation a retractable truck-bed tonneau cover. Tonneau covers help to protect the cargo in your truck bed from rain and the elements, but they also help to reduce drag and wind resistance, thus improving fuel economy.
This particular tonneau cover is built so that it retracts into a canister at the front of the truck bed (figures D and E) when not in use. It has a durable powder-coat finish and aluminum panels. Silicon hinges provide a weather-proof seal between the aluminum panels. The cover's electric motor and cargo light can be operated by a remote control.The cover utilizes a clamp-in design, so installation should require no drilling and should take only about an hour. A summary of the basic steps in the installation follows below.
Installation steps:- Start by drilling holes in the truck bed for the wiring harness and drain holes (figure F).
- Feed the wiring harness through the hole and someone else picks it up underneath the truck.
- Using jack stands to raise the box to the proper height, install the tonneau cover assembly, which is designed for this particular truck and fits in well.
- The machine end of the rail slips into the canister and the rail is lowered into position.
With the other side rail installed (figures G and H), check the measurements and both rails fit well.
The hold-down clamps (figure I) are easy to install and keep the side rails secured to the truck bed. With the cover assembly secure, the drain tubes can be installed onto the canister and down the drilled-out holes. Hook the wiring harness up to the canister plug. The unused manual switch is simply capped off for now. Once the installation is complete, check to make sure that the truck bed cover works properly and slides easily along the rails. It should fit tightly to the tailgate and the sides to keep the bed contents dry and secure from theft. But it can be opened easily by the owner when needed.
| ALSO IN THIS EPISODE: | | Fuel Efficiency Upgrade: Headers, Exhaust, Throttle Body, Aerodynamics |
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